Ch. 461..470

Chapter 461: It Must Be Your Favorite

Stella was quite busy these few days, apart from working at the studio, Clarence dedicated her to another task.

It was to discuss with the designers every detail about Starry Lake Mansion's renovation.

It was just her excuse but Clarence agreed. She intended only to renovate the room but Clarence wanted the designer to redesign the entire mansion, including the garden.

The designer needed to check every detail with her, ensuring everything was done according to her liking.

It was a massive project for Stella.

The designer waited in front of the studio even before it was opened and stayed the whole day. The designer approached her with the tablet whenever she was free until Clarence came to fetch her after work. She suspected that Clarence did it deliberately.

No, he must have done it deliberately.

She didn't even know how many times she had hidden herself in the office, Sherry walked in, "Stella, I wanted to ask a few days back, are you renovating your house?"

Stella smiled helplessly, "Don't mention it, I now know what's the taste of my own medicine."

Sherry sat opposite her, "Seems like the wretched man is concern about this and let you decide every detail."

This is not a concern, it's torturing.

He just wanted to keep me busy all the time.

Sherry sighed, "I'm jealous of you being torture like this, you order, he pays, how nice."

Stella paused hearing that, "Did Daniel contact you these two days?"

No, why would he? Sherry laid her upper body on the table, "I need to treat him meal if he contacts me, it's better if he doesn't, save me money."

Stella became silent.

Liam hadn't come these few days too. The studio was quiet.

It would have been perfect if the designer sent by Clarence was not here.

Let's go out for dinner, ask Mr. Conrad not to come over, Sherry said.

It was time for the studio's monthly dinner gathering.

She needed some time off from Clarence.

In the afternoon, the designer approached again when Stella was making coffee. "Ms. Radomil, I have a new idea that needs your confirmation about what we discussed earlier..." "Do as your idea, I'm fine with everything," Stella said.

No, Mr. Conrad said every single corner of this house should be done according to your liking.

Stella frowned, "Tell me your idea."

The designer immediately explained the results of their discussion earlier and the new idea.

Stella on the other side did not pay attention at all, after the designer was done, she said, "It's quite good, just do it this way."

The designer let out a sigh of relief, "Is there any other place that..."

Stella interrupted, "We have a dinner gathering tonight all we are mostly females, so I'm not going to invite you to join, you can go back early today."

I'll call Clarence later, Stella added, "I'll only stay in the studio today and won't go anywhere; you don't have to keep watching me."

The designer wiped off the sweat on his forehead hearing that and smiled, "Ms. Radomil is such a humorous person, I'm not watching you. I'll go back early today since you are busy, I'll see you tomorrow then."

He left holding his tablet.

The designer called Clarence and reported everything the moment he stepped out of the studio.

All right, Clarence replied casually.

Stella called a few minutes after his conversation with the designer ended.

Are you occupied? she asked softly.

No, what's the matter? Clarence asked.

I need to attend a dinner gathering tonight, you don't have to come to fetch me.

I need to stay longer in the office tonight too, call me when you are done.

Stella was speechless. She wanted to escape.

Okay, okay, Stella said.

That wretched man couldn't give them some space? Did he have to be so pushy?

Clarence smiled hearing her replied and someone knocked on his office door at this moment.

Clarence set his mobile aside, "Come in."

Nathan opened the door and strode in, "Mr. Conrad, we have news on Phoebe."

Clarence turned, "Where is she?"

She's near Barton family, I've sent our men.

The Barton, Clarence frowned.

Yes, there's also news that Mr. Barton has not been home for quite some time, while Aurora went overseas a few days ago and even listed their residence for sale with a reduced price, it seems they want to sell it fast.

Clarence grunted, sitting on his chair, "Phoebe is smart and arrogant but ended up in the hands of Aurora."

You mean Aurora is the one that leaked Phoebe's whereabouts?

Who else if it wasn't her? Clarence tapped lightly on the table, "It seems they are nothing but acquaintances and no one will think about investigating the Barton given what happened to them recently." "If Aurora took Phoebe in, why would she sell the house?"

She didn't do it genuinely, Aurora is not a kind-hearted person, furthermore, Phoebe was arrogant and had never respected her, she has been waiting to see Phoebe fall, why would she help genuinely? "Women are scary," Nathan sighed.

Clarence raised his brows as he thought of the woman that had been giving him headaches lately at home and agreed, "Scary indeed."

Clarence added after a while, "Is there any news on Charles?"

No news from Charles but I heard that William went out of town this morning.

Where to?

Not sure, and he came back at noon. Seems like he went looking for something but to no avail.

Clarence said casually, "Seems like Jeffrey is playing cat and mouse with him. What about Stella's biological mom's grave? Any news on that?"

Nathan shook his head, "Mrs. Conrad said her mother died giving birth to Channing, I've checked all information within that period and only found death certificates."☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 462: Look at It One Last Time

The dinner gathering ended at ten o'clock at night. Some of their boyfriends came to fetch them, some took taxis home.

Sherry took out her car key from the purse, "How do you go back, Stella? Let me send you."

Stella smiled bitterly, "Clarence is coming to fetch me."

Sherry grunted and realized she asked a useless question.

Let me wait together with you then, I'll leave once that wretched man is here, she said

The weather was getting warmer; the street was crowded and noisy.

Stella asked after a while, "Sherry, are you free tomorrow?"

Yes, there's no photo-shoot tomorrow, she replied.

Can you visit a place for me? Stella asked, biting her lips.

Sure, where is it?

Stella took out an apartment card, "I'm not sure which unit is it but there are only four units per floor, you might need to..."

Knock on each door to ask? Sherry took over the card, "No problem, tell me who and how the person you are searching for looks like."

A lady in her twenties, short hair, fair skin, and pretty looking, Stella explained.

Is there any other special feature?

Stella tried recalling, there was no special feature on Amanda. She added, "Try to go in after you found her and see if there's a baby in the house. If yes, stop her and inform me at once, I'll come right away." It was not possible to have someone similar to Amanda with a baby living on the same floor.

If there was, such a coincidence was man-made.

Sherry looked at Stella and realized that it was quite a serious matter, "Don't worry, I'll take care of it," she promised.

There might be someone guarding outside, be careful not to be noticed, Stella reminded.

Okay, consider it done.

The black Rolls Royce stopped in front of them as their conversation ended.

Sherry then waved at Stella, "I'm going, see you tomorrow."

Stella smiled, "See you tomorrow."

Clarence sent the designer to keep an eye on her, kept her busy, and diverted her attention. If he had sent Amanda away, there was no reason for him to do so.

So she suspected that Amanda was still there.

But she couldn't go since Clarence's men knew her, they would notice her arrival right away.

The only way was to seek help from Sherry.

The car door was open from the inside, Clarence asked, "What are you waiting for?"

Stella stopped thinking and got in the car.

Clarence noticed her slightly depressed emotion, "Are you still experiencing emotionally unstable before menstrual?"

Stella was speechless, she looked at the driver in front and threw a glance at Clarence, "Shut up."

Clarence raised his brow, "I'll bring you somewhere tomorrow."

Anqiao Street.

"

Stella skipped a heartbeat hearing that. Clarence knew she sent Sherry to the apartment and wanted to send her away? Noticing her silence, Clarence asked, Don't you want to go?"""

Stella remained calm, "No, why are we going there?"

The reconstruction starts the day after tomorrow, you like that place, don't you want to have a look one last time?

Stella wanted to reject, instead, she said, "Okay."

If she went with him, Clarence would let his guard down and she could keep an eye on him, ensuring he didn't contact them.

On the other hand, Sherry parked her car and walked into her residence area, she felt someone was following her but she has seen no one when she turned around.

A cold breeze brushed over her back, she rubbed her neck and thought she didn't drink any alcohol tonight, how come she had an illusion?

Sherry grabbed tightly on her mobile and sped up.

The elevator arrived right on time, she immediately went in after the door was opened.

She let out a sigh of relief as she arrived at her apartment and pressed the passcode.

The door was opened and someone hugged her from behind as she entered her apartment.

Sherry, I missed you so much, please forgive me, I promise I will cut ties with the woman, let's start over.

Sherry smelled a strong scent of alcohol, as she struggled, she shouted, "Are you crazy? Stop acting crazy here in the middle of the night, let me go or I'll call the police!"

Liam didn't let go, instead, he tightened his grab and started kissing her.

Sherry's arms were locked by him, she couldn't push him away, she could only avoid by moving her head. She felt like killing him now, "Liam, are you insane? Last warning or I'll show you no mercy!"

How? Oh, your boyfriend? Where is he? I knew he is not a decent guy the moment I laid eyes on him, he is nothing compared to me, don't you remember how we used to be... Ouch!

Sherry was pushed against the wall by a strong force while Liam who was behind her screamed in agony.

Without even managed to turn her head, she heard Daniel, "Go in."

Sherry took a deep breath, grabbed on the door handle, hurried in, and closed the door.

She could hear the sound of Liam being beaten up behind the door.

It was not a fight; it was purely Liam being beaten up.

After a while, the sound subsided and Liam fled the scene.

Daniel asked cautiously, "Are you okay?"

Sherry squatted on the floor with her back against the door, sobbing, "Do I look okay to you?"

I can't see.

Sherry turned speechless.

Daniel asked again, "Why don't you open the door and let me look at you?"

Sherry replied, still sobbing, "No, just go away."

Do you want me to send you to the hospital then?

Sherry was annoyed, "I said no, just go away, stop being a busy body."

Daniel was helpless, "Can you be a little rational? He was the one who attacked you, why are you angry with me?"

All men are trash!

After a few seconds, he spoke again, "I'll go now?"

Sherry wrapped her legs with her arms and buried her head in her knees, ignoring him.

The surrounding was quiet while the footsteps and elevator sound was clear.

Soon, silence covered the entire place.00000

Chapter 463: We Are Adults

Sherry raised her head and gazed blankly forward, she was exhausted.

She didn't expect Liam to found this place and he acted like a mad man.

This was the first time she realized how scary a man's strength was.

If... If Daniel didn't show up tonight, the consequences might be unimaginable.

She didn't know how long had she squatted, her legs were numb when she tried getting up.

She supported herself with the door and stood up, she felt dizzy.

As she walked towards her room, someone knocked on her door.

She was stunned and became alert. Could it be Liam? That bastard turned back?

Sherry reached for the baseball bat in the hallway as Daniel spoke, "I saw that your hands are injured so I bought you some medicine, I'll leave it at the door, come get it later."

Daniel began to worry when there was no replied from the inside.

He frowned and moved closer to the door, "Sherry, did you hear me?"

Did she faint while crying?

While Daniel reached for his mobile to call her, the door opened.

Sherry's hair was messy, both her eyes and nose reddened, the shirt was wrinkled with a baseball bat in her hands.

Daniel automatically took a step backward and raised his hands in the air, "I mean no harm, I just want to deliver the medicine."

Sherry cried just now and she still sounded sobbing, "Where is the medicine?"

Daniel picked it up from the floor and handed it over to her.

Sherry took it and said, "Thank you," with her head lowered.

It's no big deal.

Sherry looked at him, "Don't you plan to leave?"

Yes, I'm going.

After a pause, Sherry asked, "Do you want to come in?"

Daniel looked at her and gazed down, "Why don't you put down the bat first."

Sherry suddenly realized she was still holding the bat. She threw it on one side and went in with the medicine.

Daniel licked his lips, followed her in, and closed the door.

Sherry sat on the sofa and realized there were not only cuts but bruises caused by Liam on her arms.

It was quite painful.

While she was putting on medicine, Daniel who sat on the single sofa asked, "Has he been harassing you lately?"

Sherry nodded, "He appeared at the studio earlier but now he found this place."

Have you been together for long?

Sherry looked up, "Why did you ask?"

Daniel waved to signified that he meant nothing, "Sorry, I was just asking."

Sherry continued, "Our relationship started during university, it has been four or five years. We planned to get married last year but he cheated." "Getting married?"

Why are you surprised? You make me feel like getting married is a crime, Sherry said casually.

Daniel lifted his lips, "No, I was just thinking..."

Thinking that marriage is something odd to you and never thought about it, right? Sherry interrupted.

Daniel didn't deny it.

Sherry knew the first time she saw him that he was a bachelor by choice, he had a face that could easily make women fell for him and was a total womanizer. Sherry started to clean up the mess after putting medicine on her arms.

Daniel then pointed on her cheek, "There is more."

Daniel then pointed to his face, "Here, there is blood."

Sherry touched her face hearing that, "This... Ouch!"

She used her mobile as a mirror and found a fingernail scratched on her left chin, it was still bleeding slightly.

Sherry turn opened the medicine again and use a cotton bud to apply it to the scratch.

But it was inconvenient to hold the mobile with one hand and apply for the medicine with another. While she intended to move to the washroom, someone took over the cotton bud. Daniel was already sitting next to her without her realizing, "Let me do it."

Sherry looked at him with her eyes widened.

Without letting her respond, Daniel applied the medicines to her chin.

Daniel's gaze met hers and his hand froze in the air.

In the quiet night under a romantic dim light, their breaths were seductive.

It was a perfect atmosphere that increased the desires of a single man and a single woman.

He removed the cotton bud and kissed her.

While his lips were about to touch hers, Sherry threw a slap onto his face, "Men are all trash indeed," she said calmly.

Daniel was speechless. He covered his lips single-handedly and let out a cough as he retrieved swiftly. "Sorry, if there's nothing else, I shall leave..."

Sherry pulled his hand as he stood up.

He didn't expect such a move from Sherry, he lost his balance and fell sitting on the sofa.

Sherry was already sitting on his lap kissing him without letting him speak.

Their body temperatures raised as they kissed.

Their breaths were rapid after a long and passionate kiss.

Daniel's gripped on her waist tightened, his voice turned husky, "Are you sure?"

Sherry's arms wrapped around his neck, her lips looked seductive and her eyes looked flirtatious under the dimmed light. "We are adults and this isn't our first time, you don't need to take responsibility, why the hesitation?"

Daniel's eyes deepened and kissed her.

The temperature in the living room raised as time went by and soon it was filled with deep and shallow breathing.

The lightning struck outside, followed by rains.

The next morning, Sherry was awakened by the vibration of her mobile.

She answered the call with her eyes shut, it was Stella, "Sherry, I need to go to Aqock today and will probably come back tonight or tomorrow at the latest."

Sherry said yes and asked in sleepiness, "Do I still need to go there today?"

Stella paused, "Yes. But don't rush, I will text you once I landed."

Go back to sleep, Clarence is here, speak later, Stella said.

Sherry put her mobile under her pillow, hearing busy noises from the other side.

At this moment, she felt an arm on her waist.

Two seconds later, Sherry was wide awaked.

She sat up at once, flipped the blanket, and saw the naked man next to her, she was in total shock.☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 464: Passcode Is Your Birthday

Daniel frowned with the sudden shone of light onto his good-looking face.

Looking at the messy blanket and clothes all over the floor, what happened yesterday resurfaced in her mind.

Sherry took a deep breath, she must have been crazy.

What had she done?

She grabbed her hair and wanted to kill herself.

Although she always told Stella that she wanted to go for one night stand, she was just saying, never really meant it.

But it became true.

It was still okay if it was with a stranger, they could go separate ways once it was done. But he was Daniel. She was totally annoyed.

Sherry picked her clothes up on the floor, put them on, and took some clean clothes before entering the shower.

She hoped that he could take this as a one-night stand and leave silently. And pretended nothing happened when they meet in the future.

Sherry deliberately made loud noises in the shower thinking about all that, the noises she made were loud enough to wake him up. She took her sweet time to dry her hair too and waiting for him to leave. She spent over an hour in the washroom before she stepped out.

When she walked to the dining room for water, someone greeted her from behind.

Morning.

Sherry was speechless. Why was he still here?

Sherry choked up on the water but didn't turn her head.

Daniel walked to face her, "Are you going to the studio? I can send you along the way."

No thanks, there's something else I need to take care of.

Daniel raised his brow and continued, "Find a new place, he might come here again."

Even without his suggestion, Sherry already thinking about moving.

She nodded, "I'll have a look online tonight."

After a moment of silence, Daniel continued, "The place you used to stay with Ms. Radomil seems still available, do you want....."

No, I'm staying alone, I don't need a huge place.

At this moment, Sherry's mobile rang from the bedroom and helped her out of the situation. She hurried in and closed the door, distancing herself from the outside. Daniel raised his brows, paused for a few seconds, and left.

Sherry sighed out of relief after hearing the door closed. Her energy was drained from her body and she fell laying on the bed.

The flight landed at Aqock at about one in the afternoon.

It was the same as in City N, showering outside.

Stella felt the air was fresher once she stepped out of the plane.

This place was better for living compared to City N.

Stella peered through the windows on the way to Anqiao Street looking at different curves created by the falling rain on the window.

If it's still raining tomorrow, will the reconstruction starts as scheduled? Stella turned to Clarence and asked.

The rain might delay the construction but not for long.

Will you go back when it's fully dismantled or you can go anytime as you want to?

Clarence stared at her, "How long do you want to stay here for?"

It's up to you, the studio is not busy lately, I don't mind staying a few more days if you want to, Stella said.

You can't be separated from me? Clarence teased.

Stella turned speechless, the wretched man was never serious.

They arrived at Anqiao Street and the car was parked at the entrance.

The driver got down with an umbrella and moved to the back seat door.

Clarence pulled Stella back as she was about to get down, "Wait."

He got down the car and took over the umbrella from the driver before moving to another side of the door.

Stella saw Clarence with his umbrella the moment the door was opened, it was such a rare view.

That wretched man had a very handsome face. This face sometimes even made her less angry during their argument.

Stella and Clarence walked side by side on the street.

There seemed to be no one living here anymore, both sides of the street were quiet and the floor was filled with yellow wilted leaves.

Stella stopped in front of Dolores's house.

Want to go in and have a look? Clarence asked softly.

She was no longer living here, what's the point of visiting?

Stella looked at the raindrops in the river and recalled her memories.

It was still the same as before, nothing had changed.

After standing there for some time, Clarence asked, "Where else do you want to go?"

It's raining, there's nowhere else to go, let's go back to the hotel, said Stella.

Clarence looked at his watch and said, "Okay, I have a meeting scheduled at four, let's go."

Stella's eyes shone hearing he had a meeting to attend.

It was a golden opportunity.

Everything was easier since Nathan didn't come along.

Clarence ordered room service once they arrived at the hotel.

The timing was perfect after they finished the meal.

I'm going now, have some rest and I'll bring you out tonight, Clarence said.

Stella stood up too, "Where is the meeting?"

In this hotel, Clarence said, "I'll be back latest at six."

Let's go together; I've got nothing to do staying in the room anyway. Stella added, "I'll wait outside and won't interrupt."

Clarence's brows moved. She behaved like how she was three years ago, obedient.

Stella on the other hand pulled him out at once, not giving him chance to reject, "Let's go, you have a meeting to attend, don't be late."

Stella realized she knew all the people that attended the meeting after they arrived at the meeting room.

I'll wait for you outside, she told Clarence after greeted everyone.

Stella turned back after a few steps, "Do you need me to keep your mobile?"

Huh? Clarence doubted.

I remember you said you let Nathan keep your mobile whenever you are in a meeting. If someone calls, I can answer it for you and let you know after the meeting. Stella's tone was calm trying not to show her true intention.

Clarence pressed his lips, it was hard to know if he smelled something fishy.

He didn't say a word but handed her his mobile.

Don't worry, I won't check your phone, Stella said.

You won't find anything.

You mean I'm free to browse through your mobile?

She read an article online saying that no woman could smile after seeing their boyfriend's phone.

Clarence said casually, "Yes, the passcode is your birthday."

Stella didn't know what to say. When did he change the passcode?

She felt guilty out of a sudden.

Chapter 465: You Have Lost Your Mind

Stella stayed and waited in the resting room after the meeting started, she stared at the mobile on her knees.

She never intended to check Clarence's mobile, she just wanted to prevent him from communicating with people from City N.

Stella took a deep breath, reached for her mobile, called Sherry, and asked her to go now.

Sherry was prepared and departed once she received her call.

Stella sat in the resting room looking at the time passing while started her wait.

Clarence's mobile had never rung once the entire time.

About an hour later, Sherry called Stella.

She felt slightly nervous and answered it at once, "Sherry, how was it?"

I've checked each apartment, there is a middle-aged couple, a single man, and the other two were not in. I asked the couple, they said a young couple and someone who always goes on business trips lives in another two apartments. They said the person who always goes overseas hasn't been back since two months ago.

Sherry continued, "I met the security guard on patrol, they didn't know about the person you mentioned and has never heard baby's crying sound."

Stella pressed her lips, she didn't know if she should be happy or sad about this.

So, this was another coincidence.

The apartment card she picked up did not belong to Amanda.

But she...

Sherry added, "Stella if you are still worried, I'll wait until the evening to check or ask for the CCTV recording?"

There's no need, just go home, Stella said.

Stella flung herself against the sofa after she hung up, she felt exhausted and pressed gently on her glabella.

If this continued, she would be under too much pressure, overthinking, and could fall sick.

She felt like she was closed to the truth every time, but regardless of asking Clarence or investigating on her own, the results were always not what she had hoped for. Every single time.

She peered out the window blankly.

The door of the resting room opened after some time, Clarence walked towards her, "What's wrong?"

Stella came back from her deep thought, "Nothing, I feel a little dizzy."

Clarence put his hand on her forehead, frowning, "It's a little warm, let's visit the hospital."

Stella shook her head and pulled down his hand, "It's alright, perhaps it is because the weather turning cold due to the rain, I'll have medicine for cold and a nap in the room later." Clarence pressed his lips, removed his jacket, and put it on her shoulders, "All right then, let's go."

The meeting is over?

He nodded.

Stella stood up as she handed him over the mobile, "No one called but there was a few texts, I guess it's work-related, I didn't read it."

Clarence raised his brows, "Why didn't you read? I told you the passcode, didn't I?"

I'm afraid reading it will make me sad or angry, so I'd rather pass.

Stella held his hand, "Let's go back, I'm sleepy."

"

Stella continued, I mean if everything here is settled, let's go back to City N, I don't want to stay here."""

Can we go back tomorrow morning? If the rain continues until tomorrow, we need to reschedule the construction.

Clarence rubbed her head, "Why are you so obedient today?" he smiled.

That was not the only time she was obedient, she surprised him when they arrived at the room.

Clarence had just received the cold tablet from the reception and approached her with a glass of water when Stella grabbed his collars and threw herself onto him.

He fell seated on the sofa as a result of that and held tight on the glass of water in his hand. He looked at her and asked, "Don't you want medicine?"

She wrapped around his neck and said, "No."

What do you want to do then? his tone was seductive.

Stella gazed at his lips and kissed him.

Clarence held her waist and put down the glass on the table, held her head, and returned her kiss passionately.

Stella was pressed against the sofa while she grabbed tightly on his shirt.

The room temperature rose and the entire atmosphere turned flirtatious.

Clarence rose and kissed her on her lips, "Wait a second."

She knew what he was up to and held his arm.

Huh? he responded with a husky tone.

Stella's breath was a little shallow, "Let's do it this way."

This way?

Clarence stopped talking in the middle of darkness.

Stella was collaborative and was exceptionally active tonight.

She stopped only at midnight where her energy was almost drained.

Clarence held her up and said, "Have the medicine before you sleep."

Stella was tired, "I let you do it without protection and you are feeding me pills?"

Clarence was confused for a second and then held her up, "Come on, you have lost your mind due to the cold."

Stella couldn't utter a word, she struggled to open her eyes and put the pills into her mouth.

Clarence turned for the water and put her back on the bed after she drank some.

Noticing he was leaving, Stella grabbed his hand, "Where are you going?" "Tidy up the sofa," he said.

Stella thought of something and immediately turned her body, "Bye-bye."

Clarence smiled. He put a blanket on her before moving to the living room.

The sofa was a mess.

Twenty minutes later, Clarence went back to the room while Stella was already sound asleep.

He knelt on one knee next to her and gently touched her ears, "Stella, do you want anything to eat?"

He received no reply.

Clarence tidied up her hair before walking out of the room with his mobile.

He made a call and was almost immediately answered, "Mr. Conrad."

What's the situation today? Clarence asked.

Maxwell reported, "Ms. Radomil's friend came, but don't worry, everything was arranged according to your instruction, no information was leaked. We've moved Madam Anderson and Noah to another building.' Clarence leaned against the railing of the balcony, lighted up a cigarette, and replied with a rather cold tone, "All right, got it."☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 467: Better Call Your Brother Too

Stella did not expect that Clarence would bring her to the future showroom model of Anqiao Street. The showroom was quiet, with soft music playing.

At this time, the person in charge came over, "Mr. Conrad, is there anything I can do for you?"

Clarence said indifferently, "No."

Okay, then I'll pour a glass of water for both of you.

Stella was looking at the plans carefully when Clarence approached her, "How is it?"

She turned her head to look at Clarence, "I think it's quite nice. After it's completed, it shall be the largest resort hotel in Aqock. The architecture is quite distinctive. I think it will attract a lot of people.' Clarence twitched his eyebrows, probably not expecting her to think of it like that.

He slowly said, "How about the rest?"

The rest...

Stella glanced at the model in front of her again. She looked at the small river in the centre of the hotel and asked in a low voice, "What is this?"

Clarence said, "This is the stream in Anqiao Street which had been widened."

Stella suddenly realized. No wonder.

In fact, apart from the houses which were full of history on both sides of Anqiao Street, the most distinctive feature was this stream.

When the weather was hot, sitting there and blowing the breeze was even more comfortable than staying in an air-conditioned room.

The stream kept extending to the end of the lake.

The lake had also been re-planned to become a tourist attraction next to the hotel, with small boats floating on it.

Stella looked at the hotel for a while and suddenly realized that the entire architectural style of the hotel seemed to be based on this stream and the lake as a signature, thus adding a fresh blend of elements. It turned out that they had preserved the main feature of Anqiao Street so that the hotel did not look weird.

After understanding it, Stella said, "How many years will it take to complete?"

Three years if it's fast, five if it's slow.

Stella nodded. At a glance, this project was huge, three years was considered quite fast actually.

She said, "Then, after this place is built, let's come here for a tour."

Clarence hooked the corner of his lips, "Alright,"

It was already evening when they returned to City N.

Sitting in the car, when Stella opened her phone, it showed that she had several missed calls from strangers.

She glanced at Clarence secretly and pursed her lips after finding that he was reading the information.

When she arrived at her home, she went into her bedroom, shut the door and dialled the numbers when Clarence did not pay attention to her.

Is there something wrong?

Adolph said, "Are you not in City N?"

Stella said, "I went to Aqock two days ago and I'm already back. I was on the plane when you called me. What happened?"

Adolph said, "I think you can come over tomorrow. I should have found what Jeffrey hid in this house."

Stella was puzzled, "Hidden things?"

Yes, I'll tell you the details tomorrow. After a pause, Adolph added, "It will be better if you call your brother to come along."

Stella gripped the phone and sensed the seriousness of the matter, "Okay, I know."

After hanging up the phone, Stella dialled Channing's number and asked if he had classes tomorrow.

Channing said, "There's only one session in the afternoon."

Okay, I'll pick you up then and we'll go back together.

Did Jeffrey get into trouble again?

No, Jeffrey... won't be able to cause any trouble.

Although Stella never asked Clarence how he dealt with Jeffrey, she thought that it would not be a good outcome.

More than that, she did not want to know.

She just assumed that Jeffrey had died in the prison.

Channing said, "Then I'll wait for you at the school gate."

Stella agreed and put away her phone when the bedroom door was opened.

Clarence said, "Who are you talking to for so long?"

Chan. I'm going to meet him tomorrow.

For what?

Stella opened her mouth but she did not tell him about Adolph. Clarence did not like her to meet Adolph. Moreover, she did not know what the actual situation was. She planned to tell him later on. She was calm, "Nothing. I haven't met him for a long time. As an elder sister, I have the responsibility to care for him."

Clarence agreed, "You're right, as a brother-in-law, I can't abandon him either."

She pushed him outside, "You don't have to follow me all the time, go and do your work."

Clarence then wrapped his arms around her waist, "Alright, just teasing you. Going to take a shower?"

You go and wash up, I ...

Together.

Stella could not protest in time before she was brought to the bathroom.

The next day, just after walking to the basement, she saw Nathan standing in front of a brand new Bentley, looking at them with a smile, "Mr. Conrad, Ms. Radomil."

Seeing this, Stella turned her head to look at Clarence. She inclined her head.

Clarence took the key from Nathan and handed it to her, "The previous one hasn't been repaired yet, you can drive this one first, it's not convenient to always drive other people's car." Stella said, "Does it take that long to repair a tailgate..."

Nathan stepped forward, "Ms. Radomil, it's like this, the tailgate is not a big problem, the problem is the insurance issue. They haven't yet negotiated properly so they leave the evidence in the insurance company."

Stella did not know much about these things either, she just simply gave some responses, "Okay."

She opened the car door and said to Clarence, "I'll leave first then."

Clarence pursed his thin lips. He went forward to hold her wrist, "Be careful."

Stella nodded, "I always drive carefully. I won't drive very fast."

What I mean is, before you get in the car, check if the door has been opened by someone. Make sure the seat belt, the brakes, the accelerator are all okay before you set off. No matter where you are, if you encounter someone you don't know knocking on the car window, don't open it, lock it and call me.

Stella had actually rarely seen Clarence spoke to her in such a serious manner, which made her feel a little strange.

She tentatively asked, "What's wrong?"

No, just be careful, unless you want me to pick you up and drop you off every day.

... Thank you, I'll be cautious.

After saying that, Stella hurriedly got into the car.

Clarence hooked the corners of his lips. He stood outside and knocked on the car window.

After a few seconds, the window was lowered slowly. Stella showed her face, "Is there anything else?"

Clarence said, "I have a meeting this afternoon, I don't know when it will end, you don't have to wait for me after work, come back by yourself."

Got it. Stella said, "Then, I'll leave first?"

Clarence withdrew his hand and stuck it in the pocket of his trouser, "Alright."

The car window rose and the white Bentley disappeared from sight in a split second.

Nathan walked over, "Mr. Conrad, why didn't you just tell Ms. Radomil about the car accident?"

Clarence spoke indifferently, "She was tensed when she stayed in the Steward family. She has just calmed down. Don't tell her first and send someone to keep a close eye on the area around the studio. Don't let Phoebe's or Charles' men have a chance to put her in danger."

Okay.0000000

Chapter 468: Coming for You

When they arrived at the studio, Stella saw Sherry lying on the cashier's desk, sighing at a frequency of five seconds.

Stella asked the young lady next to her softly, "What's wrong with her?"

I don't know, she'd been like this since yesterday.

Stella walked over, "Sherry, have you had breakfast yet?"

Sherry lifted her head weakly to look at her, "Yes, I have eaten my breakfast."

What did you eat?

Lessons.

She pulled Sherry into her office, "What's wrong, are you feeling uncomfortable?"

Sherry's eyes were listless, "Huh? Probably, very uncomfortable."

Stella said, "Then, let me send you back to rest, or go to the hospital?"

Sherry shook her head and lay back to the office sofa, "No need, I just didn't wake up this morning, I'll be fine after resting for a while."

As soon as Stella saw her behaving like this, she knew that she was definitely hurt by love affairs again.

She did not ask any more questions. After ordering breakfast for Sherry, she put down her phone, "You can sleep first, I'll call you later." After Sherry gave a response, she closed her eyes.

After half an hour, breakfast arrived. Sherry ate it and continued to sleep until noon.

When she stretched herself, there was a knock on the office door. A young lady poked her head in, "Stella, Sherry... Daniel is coming."

Sherry was frozen. She did not say anything.

Stella said, "Did he say what it is about?"

No, but he came once yesterday afternoon. However, Sherry was not here so he left after waiting for half an hour.

Stella looked at Sherry, "I think he comes here to meet you. How shall I tell him?"

Sherry withdrew her hand slowly, "Just tell him I'm not here... No, tell him I went out of town, out of the country. I won't be back within a decade or eight years." The young lady was speechless.

Stella spoke to the young lady, "You go and tell him that Sherry went to the shooting today, and if he asks you for the exact address, just say you don't know." "Okay."

After the office door was closed, Stella said, "Are you guys...'

Sherry was agitated, "No, nothing happened!"

Stella responded, "What?"

She paused for two seconds before glaring fiercely, "You are too impulsive."

Sherry said with chagrin, "Don't mention it, I'm regretting it, I don't know what was in my mind at that time. But after all, I still have to blame Liam, that bastard, if he did not go crazy in the middle of the night, I wouldn't have been impulsive like that ..."

After hearing that, Stella frowned, "What's wrong with Liam, is he looking for trouble with you?”

Sherry briefly summarized, "He somehow found where I live and then went crazy... and then Daniel showed up."

Stella frowned, "You can't live there anymore, did you find a new house?"

Yea, but I still can't find one that suits me, I stayed in a hotel last night.

Stella looked at the time, "I'm going to pick up Chan later, then I have to go back to the place where Jeffrey lives, after that, I'll accompany you to look for houses."

Sherry nodded and said, "Why do you go back to that place with Chan?"

It was Adolph who asked me to go over there. I also don't know what's going on.

Adolph?

Stella said, "He has been living there for the last while."

When Stella got up to leave, Sherry followed her, "I'll go with you. It's boring for me to stay here."

Stella thought that in her current situation, going out for a walk was much better than staying here for her, so she agreed.

Seeing them leave the studio, when Daniel was just about to go up to them, they opened the car door, looking like they wanted to go somewhere.

He did not hesitate and went straight after them.

After picking up Chan from school, Sherry changed the demoralized look on her face and asked excitedly, "Chan, is there any kind of handsome guy with eight-pack abs in your school, preferably a sports student who plays basketball, loves sports and has a good body shape. If you know one, introduce him to me."

He said, "Did you break up with Daniel?"

The smile on the corner of Sherry's mouth froze and she laughed, "We are not even in a relationship before. What do you mean by break up?"

Channing did not believe her.

Not long after, the car stopped in front of an old residential building.

Stella pulled the car door, "Let's go."

Channing walked in the front and said as he went up the stairs, "The street light is broken, walk slowly."

The hallway was very dark. There was no light at all.

Sherry did not know the condition there well. She missed a step and screamed. When she thought she was about to fall, someone suddenly held her arm from behind and she fell into his arms. Stella and Channing turned around at the same time and wanted to ask her how was she, but when they saw this scene, they both silently withdrew their eyes and continued to walk upstairs. After Sherry came out from her absent-minded state, she hurriedly stood properly and distanced herself from him, "Why are you here?"

Daniel withdrew his hand and smiled, "I'm here to look for you."

She ignored him and quickly followed Stella upstairs.

Stella took out her key and opened the door. She waited for them all to come in before saying, "Come out."

Adolph came out from the balcony.

Channing frowned when he saw him.

Adolph also did not expect so many people to come and looked a little wary.

Stella said, "They are all my friends. We have some other things to do later, so we all come together. If it's not convenient for you to talk to so many people, I can talk to you alone." Adolph said, "No need."

If Stella wanted to hurt him, she would not have let him stay here for so long.

Adolph walked towards Jeffrey's bedroom, "Come in."

Channing looked at the clutter and clothes all over the bedroom, and then looked at the empty wardrobe, "What does it mean?"

Adolph walked to the wardrobe and stood in front of it, "According to my understanding about Jeffrey, it's impossible for him to not sell the house after he owed so much gambling debt. So, I think that there's something fishy about this house, he must have hidden something here."

After a pause, he added, "I searched for a few days and finally found that the back of this wardrobe is hollow, I am sure that the things he hid must be here."

Stella spoke out softly, "Haven't you opened it?"

Not yet, whatever he has hidden, I think it shall be opened in front of you.

Stella understood what he meant, he was trying to avoid suspicion.

No matter what was inside, as Jeffrey's former family members, it was only appropriate for them to discover it.

Adolph directly picked up the iron rod on the floor and viciously smashed it against the wooden panel at the back of the wardrobe.☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 469: This Man Is Really Crazy

While Adolph was smashing the wardrobe, everyone looked inside nervously.

The space behind the wardrobe was very small. After Adolph walked in, there was not much space left.

Stella stepped forward, "Do you find anything?"

Adolph frowned and shook his head, feeling strange.

Had Jeffrey gone to all that trouble to build a one-person high compartment but did not put anything in it?

Channing walked in and observed the compartment behind the wardrobe. Then, he reached out his hand, touched the wall next to him and said slowly, "This wall is different from the others in the room, it is rough and some parts aren't even plastered with cement."

Stella opened her mouth and understood what Channing meant. However, she still could not figure out what Jeffrey was hiding. To her surprise, he built a wall behind the wardrobe.

Sherry also came over and asked softly, "It's quite troublesome to break down the wall, right? Shall we call a professional construction team to come over?"

Adolph looked at the mottled wall and tentatively knocked it with the rod. Immediately, stones fell down.

He said, "This wall is not sealed with cement, it's not difficult to break it down."

It could be said that Jeffrey had limited energy and ability to build this wall in the first place and had simply built it, just to hide his things.

Adolph found the largest gap in the wall and then smashed it very hard. Then, the whole wall collapsed instantly.

In the corner behind the wall, a rectangular wooden box appeared.

Seeing this, Sherry could not help but said, "He's really hiding something. Will it be a precious treasure?"

At the moment she saw the box, Stella was stunned, with a vague sense of bad premonition. She could not help but grabbed Channing's arm. Adolph squatted on the stones. He took out a small knife from the pocket of his trouser and pried the box.

The moment the wooden box was opened, everyone froze in place.

Sherry felt a chill run through her spine and she almost bit her tongue.

She subconsciously moved backwards, but suddenly bumped into something.

Sherry turned her head and saw Daniel staring ahead with a face that seemed even more grave than Stella's and Channing's.

After a long time, Stella gently closed her eyes and her voice trembled, "Call the police."

She had always thought that Jeffrey was just a gambling addict and a jerk, but she never thought...

It was unbelievable that he could do such a thing.

The corners of Channing's lips were taut, as if he was also trying his best to suppress something.

Sherry fumbled for her mobile phone and was about to call the police. However, Daniel held her hand, "Wait."

Sherry was puzzled, "Wait... for what?"

Daniel looked at Stella, "Ms. Radomil, I want to talk to you for a few minutes."

Stella came out from her absent-minded state and looked at Adolph, "You go first, I will tell the police that we found this place unintentionally." Adolph nodded. He was shocked too.

No one would expect that Jeffrey, that old bastard who looked immodest and wimpy, would actually hide a corpse in the wall.

After Adolph left, Stella and Daniel walked to the living room. She said, "What do you want to talk to me about?"

Daniel said, "Although I know it may be a bit rude and disrespectful to say this, Ms. Radomil should have seen that the corpse could be your ...”

Stella interrupted him softly, "I know."

If we call the police now, once things are revealed, it's bound to cause an uproar, and it might also give Lyndon, who's hiding in the shadows, a chance to take advantage of it.

Stella frowned, "Then, what do you want?"

Let's keep this low-key first, I'll settle it properly.

Stella shook her head, "I appreciate your kindness, but this is my mother, there is no reason for you to settle it."

Daniel pursed his lips before saying, "Ms. Radomil, at this point, you should know very well that I won't harm you."

Stella looked at him, her expression unchanged, "Yes, I know you won't harm me, but I'm still curious why you are so shocked when you saw my mother's corpse, you're even more agitated than Chan and I. Who are you, or rather, what do you want to do?"

Daniel was unable to answer her question.

After a while, he closed his eyes and said frankly, "Ms. Radomil, what I can tell you is that Jeffrey is with us now. We have been trying to find out from him where your mother's grave is all this time, and have been tricked into going to many places by him, our wish is just that your mother can rest in peace."

Stella said, "In that case, just give me a reason on why shall I hand over her to you?"

Daniel was still unable to answer.

Stella continued, "Chan and I are here, and whether we report to the police or not, from my point of view, there is no way I can leave this matter to a stranger who has nothing to do with us. I believe you when you say that Jeffrey is with you and that you have been looking for her grave. However, don't you think you shall persuade me but not just flat out asking me to believe you guys every time."

After a pause, Stella added, "You guys, who are you exactly and what's your relationship with my mother?"

At this point, both Sherry and Channing walked over, seemingly waiting for Daniel's answer too.

After a few minutes, he could not help but laughed, "It's really not up to me to decide on this matter." After a moment of silence, Daniel seemed to compromise, "Just a moment, I'll make a phone call." With that, he went downstairs.

When the door was closed, Stella sat down on the sofa and closed her eyes.

She was thinking about the scene in the wardrobe compartment.

Sherry sat next to her and gently patted her back, "Stella, don't think too much, we can call the police, anyway, I think, the best way is to call the police."

Stella looked aimlessly ahead. She spoke after a long time, "I really can't imagine that Jeffrey would actually do this."

Sherry also cursed, "Yeah, this is so heartless, he's simply a psychopath, he did hide the corpse in the wall, and it's the wall behind his wardrobe, this man is really crazy." Channing lowered his head and stood there. He spoke without warning, "I want to go out too."

When he left, Sherry felt even more scared and moved a little closer to Stella.

Who would have thought that a person who had passed away for twenty years was not buried in the cemetery and her body was still lying here intact?

For the first time, he found that Jeffrey was such a horrible person.

He could live with a corpse for twenty years.

When she thought about it now, she thought that he was a very horrible person. It was possible for him to send her biological daughter to Twilight Club. Indeed, we cannot judge a book by its cover.

It was creepy.☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 470: I Was Going to Call the Police and Got You Arrested

Nathan quickly approached Clarence after Clarence got out of the meeting room, "Mr. Conrad, something happened."

Clarence stopped and became nervous, "Stella?”

Yes, and no.

Clarence looked at Nathan expressionless, "Next time, complete your sentence first."

Nathan continued, "Mrs. Conrad went back to Jeffrey's house with Channing. Then, they found out..."

Clarence tried to be patient, "Are you going to finish your sentence or not?"

Nathan didn't mean to act in such a manner. He had been working with Clarence for over thirty years, and he had seen so much, but what happened in Jeffrey's house was so uncommon. It was overwhelming and it could send a chill down Nathan's spine.

Nathan said softly, "Mr. Conrad, Mrs. Conrad's mother was found."

Where did they found her?

In... Jeffrey's house.

Clarence was shocked. He tilted his head and asked, "Are you sure?"

Nathan nodded, "The news came from them. I think Daniel was also there. The news is almost certain."

Clarence paused and narrowed his eyes. He changed direction and said coldly, "Postpone all my schedule. I have some other thing to attend to."

Nathan followed behind, "Sure."

Then, Nathan quickly took his phone out and did as Clarence asked.

After Clarence got into the car, he asked, "So, how are they?"

Mr. Conrad, are you asking about William or Mrs. Conrad?

Both.

Based on what I know, Mrs. Conrad hasn't gone to the police yet. Daniel probably stopped her. After all, it could become a piece of hot news once they inform the police. It's not going to be a good thing for either of them. It could be even more troublesome if Lyndon finds out.

Nathan continued, "As for William, they must know about it already since Daniel was there. We're just couldn't sure about what they're going to do with the new. Mr. Conrad, do you want me to go and find out?' Clarence pouted. He replied after a while, "No need. We'll know about it soon."

It had been a while since Daniel went to make a call.

Not only Daniel, Channing too never returned.

Stella sat on the couch and stared at the window with her empty-looking eyes. She was deep in thoughts.

After a long while, the sound of footsteps finally came from the entrance.

Sherry quickly stood up. She found out that it was Clarence when she was to say something.

Well, at least they weren't so freaked out now.

Sherry got out of the place after she saw Clarence's arrival. She gave an excuse saying that she wanted to look for Daniel.

Clarence sat beside Stella and hugged her around her shoulder. He said softly, "It's going to be fine."

Stella returned from the zoned-out status and stared at Clarence. Then she remembered, "Why are you here? I thought you have things to do today?"

Nothing is more important than you.

Stella grasped Clarence's shirt subconsciously and muttered, "I didn't expect this could be it..."

Clarence hugged Stella tightly. He didn't know what to say to Stella.

Stella and Channing had been staying in this house for almost twenty years. So many days and nights they had spent here, and they never knew there were human remains in the wall. And the human remains belonged to their mother.

Clarence patted Stella's back and silently consoled her.

After a long while, the sound of footsteps rose from the entrance again.

It was loud and messy.

Stella raised her head from Clarence's arms. She saw a man got thrown into the house.

Stella looked clearly, and she realized it was Jeffrey.

It seemed like Jeffrey was used to being treated like this. He got up from the floor and swiped away the dust on his shirt. When Jeffrey saw the wardrobe and wall in the room was demolished, he freaked out. He ran to the demolished wall and shouted in anger, "Who did this? Who gave you the permission to demolish my house? I'll call the police and get you all arrested!”

Channing walked into the house from outside and said coldly, "I did it."

Jeffrey ran towards Channing and grasped his collar. He scolded with the dirtiest words he knew, "You bastard! I should have drowned you in my pee when you were born. My effort in raising you was wasted. You ungrateful bastard."

Jeffrey got pulled away from Channing before he finished scolding Channing. However, he never stopped using dirty words on Channing even after he got pulled away.

Stella walked over and looked at Jeffrey calmly, "You want to call the police? Great. Go ahead. I'm interested in finding out how many years they're going to lock you up for hiding a body in the wall."

Jeffrey spat and continued shouting, "What do you know? She's mine, and I have the right to bury her wherever I want. What law did I break now? I..."

Before Jeffrey finished his sentence, he saw Clarence stood beside Stella. Jeffrey suddenly felt less dominating. There was nothing he should care about now since they've found out everything.

Jeffrey continued, "People got buried in the earth once they're dead. Why can't I bury her here instead? It's my house, and it's my own place. Why can't I do that?"

Stella didn't have high hopes of getting the truth from Jeffrey. She suddenly felt strengthless, and the world was spinning so fast in front of her. Stella reached out her hand to Clarence. She wanted to say something, but she realized she couldn't make any sound.

Before Stella passed out, she felt like she fell into a pair of warm and strong arms.

Many people were calling her name, but she couldn't really hear it.

Everything was dark.

Nathan looked at the person lying in the hospital bed and whispered, "Mr. Conrad, the police had left."

What about the body?

It was sent to the forensic team. They'll allow us to make arrangements for her funeral once they've confirmed her cause of death.

Clarence said softly, "And he didn't show up?"

Nathan shook his head, "No."

Alright. You can leave now.

Clarence then only have time to look at Stella after Nathan left. He held Stella's hand.

It was like Stella could feel Clarence's existence. Stella's eyelashes fluttered, and she slowly opened her eyes.

Stella was confused as she looked at the surrounding. She took some time to figure out where she was, "I'm in the hospital?"

Yes. You fainted. How are you feeling now?

Stella got up from the bed, "I'm still feeling woozy. Where's Channing?"

He went to the police station.

Stella was stunned, "Did anybody went with him?"

Clarence replied, "Daniel and Sherry both went with him."

Stella took a breath of relief, "Great."

You shouldn't be worrying about him. It's you who got into the hospital.

I'm worried that he couldn't take it so well for what happened.

Clarence asked coldly, "And you're taking it well?"

Clarence glanced around the ward and continued coldly, "Like this?"00000000☐☐☐☐